Elephant abuse banned in Atlanta | News

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ATLANTA -- The Atlanta City Council has approved a measure that would make it illegal to use instruments to abuse elephants.

The legislation, which did not specifically name bullhooks, was approved Tuesday by a vote of 13-1. It was introduced by Councilwoman Yolanda Adrean.

"I would be happier if we moved beyond the bullhook and talk about all forms of animal abuse," Adrean said in a statement after the amendment passed. "Any instrument can be used properly or improperly."

Under Adrean's amendment, it will be illegal to abuse elephants in four key ways: depriving them of food, water and rest; using electricity to punish them; engaging in physical punishment that results in damage or scarring; and inserting any sort of instrument into an elephant's body.

The legislation also calls for independent inspectors to be present at circuses to make sure the elephants are treated properly.